The Sunshine Coast Fibreshed develops and nurtures a regional fibre system based on local fibre, local natural dyes, and local labour, within a culture of soil-to-soil regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices.

WHO IS IN A FIBRESHED?

Fibreshed also refers to a geographical region (similar to a watershed). The Sunshine Coast Fibreshed extends along a 150-mile stretch of rainforest coastline in southern British Columbia. This is home to a number of small farms raising fibre animals—sheep, llama, alpaca, angora goats and angora rabbits—using ecologically sound methods of caring for their animals and land. The Fibreshed is also the place of fibre artists, dyers, designers, sewers, spinners, knitters, felters, weavers, and wool processors who are networking with local fibre farmers.

WHY A FIBRESHED?

In light of damaging effects of the textile industry on a global scale, we believe in supporting a grassroots network of local fibre artisans, fibre producers, and fibre consumers to help reduce negative environmental impact. We respect sustainable, regenerative agricultural practices and value natural local fibre and dye botanicals for our fashion and utilitarian uses. We believe this support will contribute substantially to building a vibrant local fibre related economy, right livelihoods, happy community. and ecological balance.

WHAT IS FIBRESHED?

BC’s Sunshine Coast Fibreshed is an independent, non-profit society within the international Fibreshed network. We are an affiliate of the umbrella organization, the California Fibershed, and are dedicated to following their mandate of using local fibre, local natural dyes and local labour. We are committed to building bridges between individuals and the land that produces our clothes and utilitarian items.